How Indigenous traditional knowledge is improving our understanding of aurora borealis

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, have long been a source of wonder and fascination for people around the world. But for Indigenous communities in Canada, the aurora borealis holds a special significance that goes beyond just being a beautiful natural phenomenon.

Nicholas Flowers, a teacher of the Inuktitut language and Inuit culture in Nunatsiavut, N.L., grew up learning about the importance of respecting the northern lights. His grandmother taught him that whistling at the lights could result in harm, such as having your head cut off. While this may seem like a superstition to some, Flowers believes that these traditions play a crucial role in preserving Indigenous culture and ensuring the well-being of the community.

In modern science, the aurora borealis is explained as a result of charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field. The varying colors of the lights are caused by different gases in the atmosphere reacting to these charged particles. While science can provide us with a technical explanation of the auroras, Indigenous stories and teachings offer a deeper understanding of their meaning.

Jennifer Howse, an education specialist at the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory and a member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, emphasizes the importance of blending Indigenous knowledge with scientific understanding. Indigenous stories about the aurora borealis often contain valuable insights into the timing, colors, and movements of the lights, as well as their potential impact on weather patterns.

For Joe Buffalo Child, who operates North Star Adventures in Yellowknife, the aurora borealis is not just a spectacular display of nature but a connection to his Dene culture and his grandparents. According to his grandmother, the lights dancing quickly in the sky are a message from someone who has passed away, reassuring their loved ones that they are at peace.

Both Flowers and Buffalo Child believe that the behavior of the northern lights can also serve as a form of weather forecasting. Still lights indicate fair weather and light winds, while rapidly moving lights suggest less ideal conditions for hunting or outdoor activities.

The blending of Indigenous traditional knowledge with modern science has enriched our understanding of the aurora borealis. This integration allows for a more holistic view of this natural wonder, highlighting the importance of respecting the land, nature, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. As we continue to learn from both scientific research and Indigenous teachings, we can deepen our appreciation for the northern lights and the wisdom they hold for us all.